Belfast for Beginners

As Americans living in Ireland for a year my fiance and I are trying to travel as much as we can. We are located in the the south western Ireland and have on been up to Northern Ireland twice now. Once for a whole weekend. It's about 4 1/2-5 hours to get to Belfast for us so we don't go too often. The first weekend we spent in Belfast we took a day trip on a tour bus to see the Giants Causeway. It was so beautiful. We made a few stops along the way and I would recommend others doing this same tour. Carrickfergus Castle was the first stop, we only had about 20 minutes but that was plenty to walk around the outside and take pictures out on the pier. Next stop, the carrick-a-rede- rope bridge. So much fun! As long as you aren't afraid of heights, like my fiance. Made a quick stop for lunch in the neighboring town. We also made a stop at the Bushmills Distillery, not for long, but enough time for my fiance to sample a whiskey flight. Bonus, there were a few Game of Thrones sights along the way as well. Of course, this bus tour takes a whole day but it was definitely worth it just to see all the scenery along the coast. The bar scene in Belfast was grand. We happened to be there Halloween weekend and everyone was dressed up and the bars were packed! Live bands everywhere and just a good mood all around. The shopping scene is also on point, if that's what you're into. The Titanic Museum is definitely a MUST. Plan on spending hours, so informative, and don't forget to step out back to see the dock. There are plenty of Air B&Bs to pick from that won't break the bank and will keep you in hip areas close to bars and nightlife.

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Points of interest

Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge

Incredibly fun. Once in a lifetime experience. Hope you aren't afraid of heights!